BCG or bacille Calmette-Guerin is a vaccine administered to prevent Tuberculosis (TB). It is also effective in keeping meningitis and miliary disease at bay. It is currently the only vaccine available to combat Tuberculosis which is an undeniable threat in developing countries.

Composition

The BCG vaccine contains live strains of weakened bacterium, closely associated to the bacterium that causes TB in humans. The vaccine goes on to stimulate the immune system but does not make a healthy individual, sick.

Dosage

The BCG vaccine is given in one dose and is done via an injection.

Who is given the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine?

1. Babies who are born in countries where TB is on the rise (developing countries like India).
2. An older child who wasn't vaccinated earlier who is in a high risk country.
3. Adults living in or travelling to high risk countries.

How it works

On taking up the typhoid vaccine orally or via an injection, an immunological response is evoked within the individual. This response fights off a potential typhoid infection the person may contract.

Common side effects

1.A mild fever.
2.Redness and swelling at the site of the injection
3.Headache